The programme will stimulate a rigorous and critical approach to understanding of network management, security treats and vulnerabilities such as viruses and malicious codes, develop network security report, collect and secure virtual crime scene, understand network security and develop an understanding of legal issues raised by the increased use of communication networks, such as the Internet, in particular the differences and contradictions between the requirements of national, supra-national and global legislative codes. The programme provides a sound theoretical and practical knowledge in technologies and techniques related to the information security and computer forensics. The programme is designed to develop and enhance the critical, analytical and intellectual abilities of the student that is focused on an approach of creative and independent thinking and the ability to communicate clearly and coherently at the appropriate level.

On completion of the MSc Information Security and Computer Forensics, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the concepts of information security.
• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the procedures and techniques to employ when investigating computer incidents and computer misuse.
• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the computer security and be able to compare the different available intrusion detection systems in the industry.

An honours degree in Computing from a recognised UK University at 2.2 or above or, a degree qualification of a standard equivalent from a recognised university outside the U.K is expected.
In the case of applicants whose first degree is from overseas, then minimum overall IELTS 6.0 with a minimum 6.0 in writing & speaking and 5.5 in reading & listening or TOEFL 250/600 is required. International qualifications will be checked for appropriate matriculation to UK Higher Education postgraduate programmes.
Students that apply to enter stages of the programme may be admitted through normal Accreditation of Experiential Learning (AEL) or Accreditation of Certificated Learning (ACL) processes, or through an approved articulation agreement. Therefore such applicants must be able to demonstrate and evidence that they have the required learning outcomes as listed in the modules for which they are seeking exemption.

The MSc Information Security and Computer Forensics runs in block mode format (Monday to Friday, 9:00 – 17:00), one year full time and two years part-time. There are FOUR taught modules plus a dissertation.
Students will be required to complete their programme within six years from initial registration.

In a postgraduate programme, in rapidly advancing subjects, it is felt more appropriate to expose students both to academic and practitioner innovation. Therefore the programme is delivered through a combination of formal lectures and seminars, reinforced by assignments and practical classes, making use of the in-house computing facilities and web based support.

The modules are assessed through a combination of examinations and continuous assessment for each semester. Once all taught modules are passed the student can undertake their dissertation for the award of MSc. The dissertation will be assessed by the staff supervisor and a second internal assessor and will be subject to an oral examination and external moderation.

The programme will be continually developed to meet the specific demands that industry require and strives to use the latest industrial standard IT packages.

The dissertation gives the student an opportunity to apply the discipline and skills of the programme to an individually selected topic requiring a measure of original development, providing a vehicle for conducting an in-depth research investigation, analysis and critical review of relevant material.

Internetworking opens up the possibilities of computer crimes through network systems’ security holes. Hackers gain unauthorized access to computer systems, playing simple pranks such as defacing web pages to committing malicious attacks such as denial-of-services and stealing or damaging sensitive data. Unfortunately, most users lack rudimentary knowledge of computer networks and the security measures, making them vulnerable which further encourage the acts of hackers.
Clearly, there is a strong need to train the IT professionals with the knowledge of Information Security and network security measures, intrusion prevention and detection, and forensic analysis for compromised systems.

Examples of career opportunities include; Office of HM Customs and Excise (professional support services branch)
Computer Crime unit of Metropolitan police, New Scotland Yard,

There is a shortage of skilled personnel in the information security and cyber crime field.

Students are supported by an allocated personal tutor who is responsible for providing advice and guidance throughout their term of study. Support is also given during specific stages of progression, such as research methods for the dissertation, as well as extra support for those that require it such as English / study skills and IT training.

This MSc enjoys a high exposure with industry; as external specialist lecturers continue to deliver their knowledge through lectures and seminars. This is particularly attractive to the students.

Students attend a research methods session which allows them the opportunity of investigating a variety of contemporary methodological frameworks and research methods so as to prepare them for the individual research dissertation.